CHECKERED FLAG: Bubba Wallace Gets It Done in Kansas!
23XI Racing Driver Earns Second Career NASCAR Cup Series Victory
KANSAS CITY, Kan. – In a thrilling and emotionally charged finish, Bubba Wallace took the checkered flag at Kansas Speedway, capturing his second career NASCAR Cup Series victory and delivering a powerful statement about perseverance, talent, and rising to the moment.
Driving the No. 45 Toyota for 23XI Racing, Wallace outpaced the competition in a dominant performance late in the race, sealing a long-awaited win for himself and the team co-owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan and NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin. The victory marks Wallace’s first win of the 2025 season and his second overall in the Cup Series, following his historic first triumph at Talladega in 2021.
“Man, this feels good!” Wallace exclaimed after climbing out of his car in Victory Lane. “We’ve been grinding all year, and to finally put it all together—here, at Kansas—is just incredible. This is for the whole team. We never gave up.”
The race was packed with intensity, featuring multiple lead changes and strategic pit calls that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Wallace’s crew delivered under pressure, giving him the track position he needed in the final stage. From there, the 30-year-old Alabama native kept his composure, holding off strong late-race challenges from Kyle Larson and Tyler Reddick.
Wallace led 67 laps—more than any other driver on the day—and showed impressive control throughout, especially in dirty air and turbulent traffic, where his handling was unmatched.
“Bubba drove one hell of a race,” said team co-owner Denny Hamlin. “He’s been putting in the work week in and week out. To see him finally get the reward, I couldn’t be prouder.”
The win is also significant for 23XI Racing, which has continued to rise in stature since its formation in 2020. Wallace’s victory reinforces the team’s growing presence and competitiveness in NASCAR’s top tier.
Kansas Speedway has proven to be a strong track for Wallace. He also won here in 2022 while driving the No. 45 in place of an injured Kurt Busch. This repeat success cements his status as a serious contender when the series rolls into 1.5-mile ovals.
“This track has always felt good to me,” Wallace said. “It fits my style. We executed perfectly today. We capitalized on every opportunity—and that’s what it takes at this level.”
Beyond the stats, Wallace’s win carries a broader cultural impact. As one of the most prominent Black drivers in NASCAR history, his continued success further breaks down barriers and brings new fans to the sport.
With the win, Wallace locks himself into playoff contention and gains crucial momentum heading into the summer stretch of the season.
As the confetti settled in Kansas, it was clear: Bubba Wallace isn’t just a feel-good story—he’s a proven winner, a fierce competitor, and a driver whose best may still be ahead.
